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Trump’s tech policy plans could affect tech companies, reshape app landscape(The Conversation is an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts.) Robert C. Donnelly , Gonzaga University (THE CONVERSATION) Former President Jimmy Carter, who died on Dec. 29, 2024, at age 100 at his home in Plains, Georgia, was a dark horse Democratic presidential candidate with little national recognition when he beat Republican incumbent Gerald Ford in 1976. The introspective former peanut farmer pledged a new era of honesty and forthrightness at home and abroad, a promise that resonated with voters eager for change following the Watergate scandal and the Vietnam War. His presidency, however, lasted only one term before Ronald Reagan defeated him. Since then, scholars have debated – and often maligned – Carter’s legacy, especially his foreign policy efforts that revolved around human rights. Critics have described Carter’s foreign policies as “ineffectual” and “hopelessly muddled ,” and their formulation demonstrated “weakness and indecision.” As a historian researching Carter’s foreign policy initiatives , I conclude his overseas policies were far more effective than critics have claimed. A Soviet strategy The criticism of Carter’s foreign policies seems particularly mistaken when it comes to the Cold War, a period defined by decades of hostility, mutual distrust and arms buildup after World War II between the U.S. and Russia, then known as the Soviet Union or Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR). By the late 1970s, the Soviet Union’s economy and global influence were weakening. With the counsel of National Security Advisor Zbigniew Brzezinski, a Soviet expert , Carter exploited these weaknesses. During his presidency, Carter insisted nations provide basic freedoms for their people – a moral weapon against which repressive leaders could not defend. Carter soon openly criticized the Soviets for denying Russian Jews their basic civil rights , a violation of human rights protections outlined in the diplomatic agreement called the Helsinki Accords . Carter’s team underscored these violations in arms control talks. The CIA flooded the USSR with books and articles to incite human rights activism. And Carter publicly supported Russian dissidents – including pro-democracy activist Andrei Sakharov – who were fighting an ideological war against socialist leaders. Carter adviser Stuart Eizenstat argues that the administration attacked the Soviets “in their most vulnerable spot – mistreatment of their own citizens.” This proved effective in sparking Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev’s social and political reforms of the late 1980s, best known by the Russian word “glasnost ,” or “openness.” The Afghan invasion In December 1979, the Soviets invaded Afghanistan in response to the assassination of the Soviet-backed Afghan leader, Nur Mohammad Taraki. The invasion effectively ended an existing détente between the U.S. and USSR. Beginning in July 1979, the U.S. was providing advice and nonlethal supplies to the mujahideen rebelling against the Soviet-backed regime. After the invasion, National Security Advisor Brzezinski advised Carter to respond aggressively to it. So the CIA and U.S. allies delivered weapons to the mujahideen, a program later expanded under Reagan. Carter’s move effectively engaged the Soviets in a proxy war that began to bleed the Soviet Union. By providing the rebels with modern weapons, the U.S. was “giving to the USSR its Vietnam war,” according to Brzezinski : a progressively expensive war, a strain on the socialist economy and an erosion of their authority abroad. Carter also imposed an embargo on U.S. grain sales to the Soviets in 1980. Agriculture was the USSR’s greatest economic weakness since the 1960s. The country’s unfavorable weather and climate contributed to successive poor growing seasons, and their heavy industrial development left the agricultural sector underfunded . Economist Elizabeth Clayton concluded in 1985 that Carter’s embargo was effective in exacerbating this weakness. Census data compiled between 1959 and 1979 show that 54 million people were added to the Soviet population. Clayton estimates that 2 to 3 million more people were added in each subsequent year. The Soviets were overwhelmed by the population boom and struggled to feed their people. At the same time, Clayton found that monthly wages increased, which led to an increased demand for meat. But by 1985, there was a meat shortage in the USSR. Why? Carter’s grain embargo, although ended by Reagan in 1981, had a lasting impact on livestock feed that resulted in Russian farmers decreasing livestock production . The embargo also forced the Soviets to pay premium prices for grain from other countries, nearly 25 percent above market prices . For years, Soviet leaders promised better diets and health , but now their people had less food. The embargo battered a weak socialist economy and created another layer of instability for the growing population. The Olympic boycott In 1980, Carter pushed further to punish the Soviets. He convinced the U.S. Olympic Committee to refrain from competing in the upcoming Moscow Olympics while the Soviets repressed their people and occupied Afghanistan. Carter not only promoted a boycott, but he also embargoed U.S. technology and other goods needed to produce the Olympics. He also stopped NBC from paying the final US$20 million owed to the USSR to broadcast the Olympics. China, Germany, Canada and Japan – superpowers of sport – also participated in the boycott. Historian Allen Guttmann said, “The USSR lost a significant amount of international legitimacy on the Olympic question.” Dissidents relayed to Carter that the boycott was another jab at Soviet leadership. And in America, public opinion supported Carter’s bold move – 73% of Americans favored the boycott . The Carter doctrine In his 1980 State of the Union address, Carter revealed an aggressive Cold War military plan. He declared a “ Carter doctrine ,” which said that the Soviets’ attempt to gain control of Afghanistan, and possibly the region, was regarded as a threat to U.S. interests. And Carter was prepared to meet the threat with “ military force .” Carter also announced in his speech a five-year spending initiative to modernize and strengthen the military because he recognized the post-Vietnam military cuts weakened the U.S. against the USSR. Ronald Reagan argued during the 1980 presidential campaign that, “Jimmy Carter risks our national security – our credibility – and damages American purposes by sending timid and even contradictory signals to the Soviet Union.” Carter’s policy was based on “weakness and illusion” and should be replaced “with one founded on improved military strength,” Reagan criticized. In 1985, however, President Reagan publicly acknowledged that his predecessor demonstrated great timing in modernizing and strengthening the nation’s forces, which further increased economic and diplomatic pressure on the Soviets. Reagan admitted that he felt “very bad” for misstating Carter’s policies and record on defense. Carter is most lauded today for his post-presidency activism , public service and defending human rights. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for such efforts. But that praise leaves out a significant portion of Carter’s presidential accomplishments. His foreign policy, emphasizing human rights, was a key instrument in dismantling the power of the Soviet Union. This is an updated version of a story that was originally published on May 2, 2019. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article here: https://theconversation.com/jimmy-carters-lasting-cold-war-legacy-his-human-rights-focus-helped-dismantle-the-soviet-union-113994 .
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Those of you born with the Root Number 4 (Born on the 4th, 13th, 22nd, or 31st of any month) are likely to face a challenging year in 2025. This year's energy is associated with the number 9, ruled by Mars. The Moon (number 2) and Mercury (number 5) will also play an essential role in the year, adding feelings and focus. This is the right time to channel that energy towards accomplishing long-term objectives. Mars gives the needed impetus to move. However, combine your earthly goals with the consideration of others to achieve optimum results. Also Read Numerology for 2025: Find your personal year number in 2025 Career Horoscope 2025 As much as Root Number 4 individuals will achieve some career achievements in 2025, the year will also present some barriers. Mars, the planet of action and energy, will help Root Number 4 people set high career-oriented goals. Nevertheless, the Moon and Mercury bring emotional and communicative energy into the equation that will largely determine professional performance. Since Mars is the ruling planet in the year, Root Number 4 people may consider taking up new roles or responsibilities. Whether you are in the process of job hunting for the first time or changing career paths, this is a year that will reward the proactive. You will perform well due to your natural discipline and focus, but you must be grounded and consider future job openings seriously. If you have been performing regular work, it is possible that your commitment will not be overlooked. However, one must not get the wrong impression that promotions are automatic and that one has to wait for them to be given to him. Mars will urge you to make decisions and act, while the Moon will want you to stay calm and balanced while waiting. Sometimes, you will get bored or angry, but keeping your emotions in check is important to manoeuvre through these times. Finance Horoscope 2025 Regarding the investment strategy, it may be better to avoid chasing a get-rich-quick scheme and instead invest in blue-chip stocks or industries you know are growing. Root Number 4: people need to be wary of companies that are not in good health or financially sound. Some high-risk investments may not give you the desired returns, and therefore, it is advisable to invest in lower-risk stocks or mutual funds, especially if one is a beginner. Apart from real estate and stock, one of the best investment opportunities to consider in 2025 is fixed-income investments, which include bonds or savings accounts with better returns. All these options give stability and can be used to minimise the effects of market fluctuations on your money. Love Horoscope 2025 This year, people belonging to Root Number 4 will be able to learn a lot about themselves and undergo personal changes in the sphere of relationships. The presence of Mars, the Moon, and Mercury will make it an active time for lovers, combining passion with tenderness and good words. For those who are single, 2025 is the year that holds all the opportunities to have a significant relationship. Mars, the planet ruling the year, is all about passion and energy, so Root Number 4 people will be encouraged to take risks in their relationships. In any aspect of your life, social or virtual, the year challenges you to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. If you are just starting out in dating, where communication will play an important role. The aspect of Mercury will assist you in overcoming the initial stages of a relationship and make you more receptive to your partner to create a strong base. For those in a committed relationship, 2025 is the year to strengthen your love and work on your feelings and understanding of your partner. Mars could help to reignite the spark and make you both want to spend more time together and explore new things for two. Health Horoscope 2025 Root Number 4 people born in 2025 should be cautious with their health, as the year’s energies can affect health and emotional well-being. Emotional health can be a problem in Root Number 4 individuals, and it may be seen that these emotions cause physical problems, including headaches or even problems sleeping. Root Number 4: people should pay attention to bones, joints, and the lower back. Mars, the ruler of the chart, is responsible for our energy, endurance, bones, and muscles. Therefore, any exertion or overworking can cause pain in these regions. It is important to visit a doctor in 2025, and Root Number 4 persons should not neglect any signs and symptoms they may develop and seek medical help regardless of the size of the problem.Hull's Ideal Heating is big winner at Hull and East Yorkshire Business AwardsSources: WH considering preemptive pardons for Trump’s perceived enemies
Letter: Christmas gifts?REDWOOD SHORES, Calif. , Dec. 5, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Reichman Jorgensen Lehman & Feldberg LLP (RJLF) has filed a lawsuit on behalf of a coalition of manufacturers, businesses, affordable housing interests, and workers seeking to prevent enforcement of South Coast Air Quality Management District regulations that effectively ban certain gas appliances. The plaintiffs, representing thousands of California residents, businesses, and workers, include Rinnai America Corporation , Noritz America Corporation , National Association of Homebuilders , California Manufacturers & Technology Association , California Restaurant Association , California Hotel & Lodging Association , and California Apartment Association , all represented by RJLF and Sean Kneafsey of the Kneafsey Law Firm . Californians for Homeownership is represented by Matt Gelfand , Restaurant Law Center is represented by Angelo Amador , and the California State Pipe Trades Council by McCracken, Stemerman & Holsberry . The coalition's suit asserts that the District's zero-NOx emissions rule for certain appliances, which effectively bans those gas appliances, is preempted by the federal Energy Policy and Conservation Act (EPCA) and should be blocked. The District's rule not only effectively mandates the use of electric appliances in new buildings but also forces costly retrofits to electric in existing buildings when appliances are replaced. This rule threatens the reliability and affordability of energy for millions of Californians, will impose enormous costs and disruption on businesses and workers, and will reduce the availability of affordable housing. Earlier this year, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit held that Berkeley, California's ban on gas piping in new buildings was preempted by EPCA ( California Restaurant Association v. City of Berkeley , 89 F.4th 1094 (9th Cir. 2024)) . The District's rule is legally indistinguishable, and the same result applies. "This case is pivotal to reinforcing the federal and state roles in setting national energy policy," said Sarah Jorgensen , lead counsel for the plaintiffs at RJLF. "The District's mandate for electric appliances in both new construction and forced retrofits not only jeopardizes our clients' work, business, and interests but also disregards established federal law. California must comply with the law." The case is Rinnai America Corp. et al. v. South Coast Air Quality Management District , No. 2:24-cv-10482 , in the United States District Court for the Central District of California . About Reichman Jorgensen Lehman & Feldberg LLP Reichman Jorgensen Lehman & Feldberg LLP (RJLF) is a national trial firm that handles high-stakes energy, commercial, intellectual property, and white collar disputes. The firm is majority women-owned, reinventing the practice of law without the billable hour in favor of fee arrangements that align client interests. RJLF's attorneys are diverse, exceptionally credentialed, and passionate about trial advocacy. From offices in Silicon Valley, New York , Washington, D.C. , Austin , and Atlanta , the firm tries cases and argues appeals throughout the country. For more information, visit www.reichmanjorgensen.com . Contact Sarah Jorgensen sjorgensen@reichmanjorgensen.com (650) 623-1403 View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/reichman-jorgensen-lehman--feldberg-leads-suit-against-south-coast-air-quality-management-districts-effective-ban-on-certain-gas-appliances-302324441.html SOURCE Reichman Jorgensen Lehman & Feldberg LLP
Michelle Keegan and Mark Wright's secret pregnancy photoshoot before big announcementThe National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) denies it has been lobbied to change a commissioner to sway an investigation into former premier Thaksin Shinawatra 's police hospital detention. NACC secretary-general Sarote Phuengramphan, who is also the agency's spokesman, denied lobbying had taken place to change the commissioner in charge of the case, as reported. The lobbying was alleged by activist and former red shirt leader Jatuporn Prompan who claimed during a live session on Facebook on Dec 25 that an attempt was made to coax Ekkawit Watchawanku into stepping aside as commissioner in charge of the Thaksin hospital detention case. Mr Sarote said on Sunday the NACC has accepted the case for probe with the entire panel of commissioners supervising the process. The NACC earlier this month agreed to investigate officials accused of letting Thaksin stay in relative comfort at the Police General Hospital (PGH) instead of prison. Thaksin, sentenced to eight years in prison across three cases before receiving royal clemency, reducing his term to one year, was detained in a ward on the 14th floor of the hospital for approximately six months. He was paroled and discharged from the PGH on Feb 18, completing his one-year prison term on Aug 31. The commission decided to take up the case in response to claims that officials at the Department of Corrections and the hospital sent Thaksin to the PGH so he did not have to serve his term in prison. Thaksin spent 180 days at the PGH, although he was believed not to have been seriously ill. The NACC said it had gathered enough facts, witnesses and evidence to conduct the probe so decided to proceed with the case. The investigation would focus on 12 officials at the Department of Corrections and the PGH, the commission said. On his Facebook session, Mr Jatuporn said Mr Ekkawit was subject to lobbying to stand down in favour of another commissioner. The activist suggested the lobbying may have come from someone within the commission. He said Mr Ekkawit, a former Supreme Court chief justice, assumed a prominent role in the probe and it was natural for him to be target of lobbying to have him sidelined. Although a switch of commissioner in charge may not end in the case being dropped, it would at least delay the investigation, Mr Jatuporn said. However, Mr Jatuporn said it was up to Mr Ekkawit if he would cave in to pressure. "My message to NACC is simply this. The country had endured enough tribulations. The agency must recognise that there are no secrets in the world," he said.
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